Consent to research

Supporting medical research

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Although not all doctors are directly involved in medical research, many are able to support it by raising awareness among patients and supporting them to take part in appropriate opportunities if they wish to do so.

You may find the following links useful.

UK-wide websites

The provides information for patients and for health professionals on clinical trials happening across the UK that patients may be able to take part in. You can search by medical condition and by location.

The is a resource produced by the National Institute for Health Research to give practical advice to researchers in designing and conducting publicly funded research.

The provides guidance for researchers on the steps involved in the research pathway, from the initial study idea through to publishing and disseminating the results at the end of a study. It also publishes details on all research studies in the UK in the .

The UK database of uncertainties about the effects of treatments publishes information about uncertainties from patients, carers, clinicians, and from research recommendations, covering a wide variety of health problems.

Most medical royal colleges and faculties also have an active research programme. Contact your royal college for information on research programmes that they are supporting.

England only websites

includes information for patients in England considering taking part in clinical trials, including video case studies

The in England provides information and support for healthcare professionals wanting to carry out research within the NHS. It also includes information for patients considering becoming involved in research.

GPs in England may find the (CPRD) website helpful. CPRD is an observational data and interventional research service funded by the NHS National Institute for Health Research and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority.

Scotland only websites

provides information for researchers and for patients in Scotland.

Wales only websites

is a website encouraging the involvement of patients and the public in health and social care research in Wales. The website also includes information for researchers on how they can engage members of the public in their research.

Northern Ireland websites

In Northern Ireland, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety has published a to guide clinical research studies.

We help to protect patients and improve medical education and practice in the UK by setting standards for students and doctors. We support them in achieving and exceeding those standards, and take action when they are not met.